2009 BMW 116 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 BMW 116. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 81 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 BMW 116 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 116. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 116 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 116 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
